Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans, Marken, Volendam, & Edam Day Tour

Travelers searching for a way to escape the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam and see the authentic side of the Netherlands will find this full-day tour a charming way to do just that. With highlights spanning windmills, traditional villages, cheese tastings, and historic sites, it offers a well-rounded snapshot of Dutch culture outside the city limits.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? We love the knowledgeable guides who bring stories and history to life, the stunning scenery of windmills and meadows, and the balance of activities and free time that allows for personal exploration. However, some might find the schedule a bit tight, especially if you prefer to take your time.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy cultural sights, picturesque landscapes, and learning about Dutch traditions in a lively, fun environment—perfect for first-time visitors and families alike.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Experience: Visit traditional Dutch villages with colorful houses and windmills.
• Beautiful Scenery: Scenic drives, canal cruise, and charming rural landscapes.
• Expert Guides: Well-informed guides make history and culture engaging.
• Value for Money: At just $50, it offers a rundown with optional extras.
• Flexible Options: Standard or all-in experiences, including boat rides and demonstrations.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for children and all ages, with ample opportunities for photos and souvenirs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Tour: What to Expect

This 8-hour journey begins from De Ruijterkade 34A, near Amsterdam Central Station, making it easily accessible even if you arrive just for the day. Once onboard, you’ll enjoy a comfortable bus ride through North Holland’s scenic countryside, dotted with windmills, farms, and traditional homes. The trip is designed to give you a taste of the Dutch landscape and culture, with optional add-ons to deepen your experience.

The Authentic Village of Marken

Your first stop is Marken, a village famous for its well-preserved traditional Dutch architecture and history. The guided walking tour here takes you through colorful streets lined with wooden houses and quaint shops. It’s a photographer’s dream, and the atmosphere feels like stepping back in time.

If you’ve chosen the all-in option, you’ll get to visit a clog-maker’s studio, where you’ll see how iconic wooden shoes are crafted—an activity fondly reviewed for its hands-on demonstration. A highlight for many visitors, this part of the tour offers a genuine glimpse into Dutch craftsmanship.

Valerie praised her guide’s knowledge, saying, “He was very knowledgeable about the history of Amsterdam and answered questions with enthusiasm,” which hints at the quality of commentary you can expect.

Cruising on IJssel Lake

Next, there’s a choice: travel to Volendam by coach or hop on the Marken Express boat for a scenic cruise across IJssel Lake (included in the all-in option). The boat ride is a favorite among travelers, providing beautiful views of the water, traditional fishing boats, and the surrounding landscape, all in a relaxed setting.

Davit noted that the boat trip was a highlight, mentioning, “Everything was great, a bit rushed but overall a good experience,” which suggests that even with a packed schedule, you get memorable views and a relaxed boat ride as part of your day.

Exploring Volendam and Edam

Arriving in Volendam, you’ll have free time to explore shops, sample local delicacies, or even try on traditional Dutch costumes for fun photos—a popular activity that many reviewers find charming.

A visit to a cheese factory allows you to see how Dutch cheese is made and sample fresh varieties, often accompanied by enthusiastic demonstrations. Reviewers like Nikki appreciated this part, noting, “Both my children enjoyed it,” making it a family-friendly highlight.

Afterward, the tour takes you to Edam, a historic town famous for its cheese. You’ll walk past the original shipyard, visit the Grote Kerk, and soak in the peaceful cobbled streets. It’s a quieter spot that offers a glimpse into traditional Dutch maritime life.

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The Windmills at Zaanse Schans

The final stop is Zaanse Schans, an outdoor museum showcasing historic windmills and traditional crafts. You can walk through the area, marvel at the windmills, and, if you’ve selected the all-in option, enter one of these giants to learn about their industrial significance.

Many reviewers, like Shelli, loved this part: “The demonstrations of cheese, clog making, and windmill inside were really good,” which adds value and context to the iconic Dutch symbol.

Returning to Amsterdam

As the day winds down, you’ll enjoy scenic views of North Holland’s homes, barns, and lush meadows on the way back to Amsterdam. The entire trip balances sightseeing with enough free time to absorb the atmosphere and take photos.

Transportation and Group Size

This tour uses a comfortable bus that ensures a smooth ride, with some options for smaller, more intimate groups (via the Charm of Holland tour). The standard tour is usually a larger group, but many reviews mention friendly guides who keep things lively and engaging.

The meeting point is conveniently located near Amsterdam Central Station, with clear instructions, and the tour ends back at the starting point, making it easy to plan your entire day.

The All-in Experience: Are the Extras Worth It?

For just a bit more, the all-in option adds a clog-making demonstration, windmill entry, and boat cruise. Many visitors find these enrich the experience, making it more interactive and memorable. Reviewers like Audrey called it “money well spent,” especially praising the guides at each demonstration for their friendliness and knowledge.

Value for Money

At $50 per person, this tour provides a rundown of Dutch culture with optional extras that add hands-on activities and scenic boat rides. The price includes guided tours, demonstrations, and transport, meaning you won’t have to worry about extra tickets or logistics.

Some reviews mention the good value, especially considering the variety of places visited and the quality of guides. For instance, Nancy said, “Great…if I have to be picky, the walking in the cold was a bit tough, but the tour was wonderful.”

The Experience for Different Travelers

This tour suits first-time visitors eager to see multiple Dutch villages in one day without the hassle of planning individual visits. Families and groups of friends often enjoy the relaxed pace, especially the chance to wear traditional costumes and sample local food.

If you’re someone who loves learning about local craftsmanship—from windmills and cheese to clogs—you’ll find this tour rewarding. Those who appreciate a good story will love the guides’ detailed commentary, which many reviewers praise highly.

However, if you prefer to wander slowly and spend more time at each location, you might consider the Charms of Holland guided tour, which offers a smaller group size, more personalized attention, and a traditional Dutch lunch (available on Fridays).

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, from departure in the morning to return in the late afternoon, covering multiple sites efficiently.

What is included in the standard tour?
The standard package includes a bus tour, guided walking tours of Marken, Volendam, Edam, and Zaanse Schans, a cheesemaking demonstration, and transportation between sites.

What additional activities are available with the all-in option?
The all-in package adds a clog-making demonstration, windmill inside visit, and a boat trip across IJssel Lake on the Marken Express.

Is food included?
No, unless you book the Charm of Holland option, which includes lunch on Fridays. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to buy snacks or try local delicacies during free time.

Can children join?
Yes, children aged 3 or younger can go free if they don’t occupy a seat, making it suitable for family outings.

Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted on the tour.

Where do I meet the tour?
Meet at De Ruijterkade 34A, near Amsterdam Central Station, 30 minutes before the scheduled departure.

Is the tour multilingual?
Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication for diverse groups.

Can I cancel and get a refund?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexible planning.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This full-day Dutch village tour offers excellent value, blending traditional crafts, scenic landscapes, and cultural insights into a single memorable outing. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting to see the countryside without missing the highlights of classic Dutch life.

Families will enjoy the mixture of educational demonstrations, fun photo opportunities, and relaxed exploration, making it a great choice for all ages. The knowledgeable guides and well-organized schedule ensure you get a lot of value for the modest price, especially with the all-in option’s extra activities.

If you’re looking for an authentic taste of the Netherlands—beyond Amsterdam’s busy streets—this tour hits all the right notes, combining scenic beauty, cultural tradition, and lively storytelling. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring your camera, and be ready for a day packed with charming surprises.

In short, this tour is for curious travelers eager to experience the Dutch countryside’s charm, history enthusiasts, and families wanting an engaging day out. It’s a well-rounded, budget-friendly way to see the Netherlands’ cultural icons with lively guides making every stop informative and fun.

You can check availability for your dates here: